Ryan Papenhuyzen has sensationally walked away from the final year of his $1m a year Storm contract, as he looks to explore his options elsewhere.
It is understood that the 27-year-old met Storm owner and chair Matt Tripp on Wednesday night, where he asked for an immediate exit.
Melbourne reluctantly agreed, granting him an immediate release.
Papenhuyzen, who has been heavily linked with rebel Rugby in a competition R360, has been a regular in the Storm side for several years, and he is a huge loss for the NRL heavyweights.
It is understood Papenhuyzen’s contract was worth around $1m a season, freeing up funds to raid the player market when more than 160 players are free to negotiate with rival clubs come November 1.
It also clears the path for young prodigy Sua Fa’alogo.
The Samoan fullback signed an extension with the Storm until the end of 2028 last season, but it was understood that he had a verbal agreement with Melbourne to allow him to leave if Papenhuyzen re-signed.
However, Melbourne may choose to spend their newly freed up funds to try and lure superstar North Queensland youngster Jaxon Purdue to the club.
Purdue as well as Tino Fa’asuamaleaui have been heavily linked to the Storm, with both free to negotiate with Melbourne come November 1.
Papenhuyzen played 113 games for the Storm over nine years.
The fullback achieved NRL premiership glory with Storm in 2020, earning the Clive Churchill Medal as Melbourne defeated the Panthers 26-20.
On Thursday, Papenhuyzen thanked Storm fans for their support.
“I’ve loved my time at Melbourne Storm. I’ve enjoyed close to a decade of incredible memories and experiences in the purple jersey,” he said.
“Playing in front of the Storm fans every week has made my time in Melbourne something I’ll never forget.
“I want to thank the Club for their understanding and support throughout this process. I also want to thank my teammates, coaches and staff for all their love and support, it’s been a privilege playing footy and working with you.”
Melbourne Storm Chairman Matt Tripp added: “Ryan has shown great character and resilience throughout his time at our Club, and we’ve loved watching him develop into the player and person that he is today. We’re obviously disappointed that his time at Storm has come to an end, but we respect his decision to take some time away from professional sport.
“We thank Ryan for his enormous contribution to our Club. He departs Storm as a Premiership player and Clive Churchill Medallist with 113 games to his name. We wish Ryan the very best for the next chapter in his life and career.”
Papenhuyzen becomes the second Storm player to leave the club this week, after Jonah Pezet signed with Parramatta for next year before he is set to join the Brisbane Broncos on a long-term deal from 2027.
More to come.
